2014 Texas Football Schedule Preview: Baylor Bears

Jan 1, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; UCF Knights running back Storm Johnson (8) fumbles the ball while being tackled by Baylor Bears defensive lineman Byron Bonds (96) and defensive end Shawn Oakman (2) during the first half in the Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive Line

Defense has never been a strength of this team. Many believe the defense will keep Baylor from ascending to the next level in college football. We all remember games like the 70-63 shootout with West Virgina two years ago.

The thing is the defense is starting to turn the corner. A good pass rush can mask a weak secondary. Baylor is slowly building this line. Andrew Billings anchors the middle. Only a sophomore, Billings made life miserable for the Texas offensive line last year. Now he has a year of experience under his belt.

Shawn Oakman could be mistaken for a member of the Baylor basketball team. At 6-foot-9, Oakman towers over smaller offensive lineman. Baylor used him mostly in pass rushing situations last year. This year Briles will turn him loose on every down. His height makes him tough to throw at, too. If you haven’t heard of Shawn Oakman by now, you will this season.